EC retains original ballot order for 2024 Election after GFP candidate disqualification

The Electoral Commission (EC) of Ghana has announced that it will uphold the existing ballot order for the December 2024 presidential election, despite the disqualification of Philip Appiah Kubi, the Ghana Freedom Party’s (GFP) replacement nominee following the death of the party’s founder, Akua Donkor.

This decision was confirmed by EC Chairperson, Mrs. Jean Mensa, during an emergency Inter-Party Advisory Committee (IPAC) meeting on November 12. The decision to retain the original ballot layout was made to maintain the integrity of the election process, especially given that the printing of presidential ballots is already 90 percent complete.

Mrs. Mensa emphasized that altering the ballot order at this advanced stage could disrupt logistics and delay preparation for the December 7 election. “We are here to inform you of the Commission’s decision to maintain the presidential ballot as it is,” she stated, noting the EC’s commitment to staying on schedule and ensuring a smooth election process.

The GFP had attempted to replace its candidate after Akua Donkor’s passing, but Kubi’s nomination was ultimately rejected due to substantial errors and illegalities on the form. Specifically, the EC noted that the GFP used voters from multiple districts to represent other districts, a violation of electoral regulations.

This decision brings Ghana one step closer to finalizing the ballot as the country prepares for its national elections, reaffirming the EC’s commitment to an efficient and fair process.